Prevent Mold Growth in Your Garage – Mold Cleanup Springfield MO
Humid environments with little ventilation and sunlight are the perfect place for mold. When these conditions appear, it doesn’t take long for mold to grow on cardboard, drywall, and other surfaces. Garages are often the perfect place for mold growth, but there are some things you can do to keep mold out and prevent the need for mold removal in Springfield Missouri.
Check for Leaks
Make sure you inspect the floor, roof, and other areas like gutters or pipes to ensure they’re in good shape. Any damage or cracks should be fixed immediately to prevent leaks.
Seal and Insulate
Make sure your garage door is weather-proofed by sealing and insulating the garage door. Make sure weather stripping is in good shape and check the bottom seal for shrinkage or wear. Pre-insulated garage door panels often have a higher resistance to the flow of heat.
Minimize the Humidity
Garages are exposed more to the elements, so they might have a humidity of 50% or more. Use proper ventilation and fans as well as letting in sunlight for at least a couple of hours a day to minimize humidity. A dehumidifier can also help reduce the moisture level.
Make Sure Walls are Waterproof
When remodeling or building a garage, use mold-resistant drywall and waterproof paint for the walls and concrete. You can also use pre-coated aluminum or vinyl siding for more protection.
Look for Standing Water
Often, water in the garage comes from the rain outside, snow-covered tires, or a recently washed car. Use a mop or squeegee to remove the water from the garage to prevent mold growth. This should be done as soon as the standing water is noticed.
Make Sure the Garage Can Drain
To prevent standing water in the garage, have a garage floor drainage system installed. You’ll also want to make sure there is a proper floor slope to direct water away from the garage. This helps remove water in the garage so mold cannot grow as easily.
Check the Length of Gutter Downspouts
Your downspouts should extend at least 10 feet away from the garage’s foundation. This will help stop water from building up around the garage. You should also make sure the gutters are well-maintained and kept free of debris.
Minimize Porous Materials
Mold generally grows on porous materials like paper, cardboard, and drywall. Use plastic totes instead of cardboard boxes in your garage. This has the added benefit of providing better protection for the contents of the box.
Keep Plants Away from the Garage
Plants collect moisture and, because of their growth, can lead to leaks in the garage. Though they look nice, keep them a safe distance away from the garage walls to minimize their impact.
Mold growth occurs because of excess moisture. Keep your garage free from mold by following the tips here to reduce the possibility of excess moisture. If you do ever experience water damage or mold in your garage or home, contact the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration for an estimate on mold cleanup in Springfield Missouri.